2009 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500 (326 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 212 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1102 kg more than 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500.
Because 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500 (480 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 325 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A | 500 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1699 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 326 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 480 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 251 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2832 kg | 1730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2810 mm |
